Laboratory Data Entry Specialist

Company Description Harken Research is an

ISO17025

accredited testing laboratory located in Los Angeles with two core business units: consumer product testing and pharmaceutical contract research. Within the consumer product testing unit dietary supplements, food, and cosmetics are the focus - with additional testing services catering to other industries. Our strengths are our ability to offer customized testing and problem solving to address client needs; excellent customer service; and quick turnaround times. Summary We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Laboratory Data Entry Specialist to join our growing team in Pasadena. This position is responsible for reviewing incoming client orders, product labels, and testing requests and accurately entering them into our laboratory systems. The ideal candidate is a fast and accurate typist, communicates professionally with clients, enjoys working with data, and is comfortable learning technical laboratory terminology and testing services. This is not a traditional data entry position. Success in this role requires learning our testing services, understanding product labels and Supplement Facts panels, identifying potential order issues, and helping ensure projects are correctly set up before entering the laboratory. Duties Order Entry & Project Setup Review and enter client orders from Chain of Custody (COC) forms into laboratory systems. Verify accuracy and completeness of client-submitted information. Ensure sample information, testing requests, billing information, and project details are entered correctly. Interpret client testing requests and identify missing, inconsistent, or unclear information. Maintain organized electronic records and documentation. Process incoming projects accurately and efficiently while meeting turnaround expectations. Product Label & Supplement Facts Review Review product labels, Supplement Facts panels, Nutrition Facts panels, ingredient statements, and product marketing materials. Accurately enter label claim information into laboratory systems. Verify ingredient names, claimed potency levels, serving sizes, units of measure, and other product information. Learn common dietary supplement, food, beverage, and cosmetic testing requirements. Identify discrepancies or information requiring clarification before projects are scheduled. Test Selection & Technical Review Learn Harken Research's testing services and capabilities. Review client-selected tests for accuracy and appropriateness. Identify situations where requested testing may not make sense for a particular sample type or product. Consult with the Laboratory Director and scientific staff when technical questions arise. Help ensure all projects are properly scoped before laboratory work begins. Client Communication Draft and send professional emails to clients regarding order questions, missing information, testing requirements, and project updates. Contact clients to clarify product information, label claims, sample descriptions, and testing requests. Provide prompt, professional, and courteous customer service. Work closely with Customer Service personnel to resolve order-related questions. Outsourced Testing Coordination Work with Customer Service personnel to identify testing services that must be performed by partner laboratories. Assist in preparing quotes and recommendations for outsourced testing services. Help ensure client testing needs are matched with the appropriate internal or external laboratory resources. Coordinate with internal teams to ensure outsourced testing projects are set up correctly. Administrative & Operational Support Assist with data verification, reporting, and document management. Support continuous improvement of order entry and project setup processes. Perform other administrative and operational duties as assigned. Essential Functions Remain in a stationary position for extended periods while performing order entry, data review, and administrative tasks. Operate a computer and standard office equipment for extended periods throughout the workday. Work in a laboratory and office environment on a regular basis. Occasionally move, lift, carry, or maneuver items weighing up to 25 pounds, including sample shipments, laboratory supplies, and documentation. Review and interpret technical documents, product labels, Supplement Facts panels, Nutrition Facts panels, Chain of Custody forms, and laboratory records. Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with laboratory personnel, customer service representatives, management, ownership, vendors, contractors, and clients. Maintain attention to detail while handling multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment. Collaborate with laboratory scientists, the Laboratory Director, Customer Service, and other departments to resolve project-related questions and ensure accurate order setup. Exercise sound judgment when identifying discrepancies, incomplete information, or testing requests requiring clarification. Qualifications Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy. Fast and accurate typing and data entry skills. Strong written communication and professional email etiquette. Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Outlook, Word, and other Microsoft Office applications. Strong organizational and time-management skills. Ability to learn technical information and laboratory testing terminology. Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities. Professional, positive attitude and willingness to learn. Preferred Qualifications Previous experience in a testing laboratory, scientific environment, or regulated industry. Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, or another scientific discipline. Previous hands-on experience working in a chemistry laboratory. Familiarity with dietary supplements, food, beverage, cosmetic, or consumer product testing. Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS). IT, database, or technical support experience. Experience reviewing product labels, Supplement Facts panels, or Nutrition Facts panels.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$22.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Experience:

Laboratory:

1 year (Preferred) Ability to

Commute:

Pasadena, CA 91105 (Required) Ability to

Relocate:

Pasadena, CA 91105: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person